Bienvenidos a Colombia!

The Host Colombian Team and their families opened their club and their homes to the Pan American Teams and put on a spectacular event in an unbelievably beautiful setting. The Tournament was a fantastic experience for everyone, even those who didn't ski as well as they had wanted. Hats off to our Colombian Hosts who went above and beyond deliver such an exceptional tournament. Much to the surprise of those who were concerned about the safety of our athletes, we all found the Colombian people to be very welcoming and friendly. If you have the opportunity to explore this hidden gem, you will not be disappointed!

I had the opportunity to tour much of Antioquia by car. I saw some of the most beautiful sites in the world that I have ever seen. I was surprised to see the large number of military personnel wherever I traveled, but when speaking with them, it was apparent that they were there to protect the people. They were quick to pose with us for the numerous photographs, and I heard that some even allowed our team members to pose with their rifles. They, like all Colombian people I encountered, were very friendly and helpful. From the quaint historic towns nestled beside beautifully clear blue lakes to the mountains overlooking the state capital, Medellin, I was constantly exclaiming "Que Rico!" 

Tournament Results: TEAM USA won the gold medal at the 2008 Pan-American Games in Medellin, Colombia. US Team Members Caroline Hensley, Zack Worden, John Lex Kennerly, and Lauren Morgan brought home 13 Medals. The Junior USA girls and boys took all 8 gold medals. Both Caroline Hensley and Zack Worden, USA Waterski's June and July athletes of the month, captured gold medals in slalom, tricks, jump, and overall. This was Caroline's second consecutive sweep of the Pan American Junior Competition, having also won four gold medals in the 2006 PanAms at AquaSki near Cuernavaca, Mexico.

The under thirteen team, junior, 17-21, elite and veteran teams all brought home the gold medal from the Pan American Games in Colombia. For the first time in history, the USA sent an under 13 team to the Pan Ams, and the team skied well, led by Erika Lang’s first place finish in slalom, tricks, jump and overall. Performances by Dustin Peterson who got 2nd in slalom and 3rd in Tricks and Jump, Sam Greenwood who won tricks, finished 2nd in jump, and got 3rd in slalom, and Nick Lang also contributed as well.